Marike Polak

Marike Polak is an Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies (DPECS) within the Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences at Erasmus University Rotterdam. She serves as a statistical expert and contributes to teaching in research methods, statistics, and professional skills. She is also the coordinator of the academic skills learning line in the Psychology Bachelor’s program and chairs the Examination Board of ESSB.

• University: Erasmus University Rotterdam
• School: Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences
• Department: Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies
• Academic Rank: Associate Professor

Her research focuses on psychometrics, including validation of clinical diagnostic tools, personality disorder assessment, test development, and individual differences. She also conducts applied research in mental health and prenatal screening. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals in health and well-being.

Recent publications highlight her interdisciplinary work in prenatal genetics, combining psychometric and ethical dimensions. Her research spans topics such as NIPT, informed decision-making, and public attitudes toward genetic technologies. She collaborates with Erasmus Medical Centre and mental health professionals from the Developmental Profile foundation.

• Psychometrics
• Validation Methods
• Clinical Diagnostics
• Prenatal Screening
• Genetic Testing Ethics
• Mental Health Assessment

Scientific Contributions:

• Contributed to the Guidelines for the Use of Tests 2017 by COTAN (Dutch Committee on Tests and Testing)

She supervises PhD student Laura van Riel and is a co-supervisor on a project at VUmc Amsterdam. She is also affiliated with the Interuniversity Graduate School of Psychometrics and Sociometrics (IOPS). Her teaching and research reflect a strong commitment to evidence-based practices and educational innovation.